Growing Our Church Family Part 2Sample

DEVOTED TO SHARING

Sharing life with other Christians is not always convenient or easy. A lot of people evaluate their circles by what they get out of it. Sometimes people say, “This group doesn't really work for me.” Or “We aren't the same age.” “We aren't at the same stage of life.” “We are just too different.” We can be sure that the first church had plenty of differences too!

In fact, the first church originated from an event where 3000 were saved. These new believers were made up of people “from every nation under heaven.” It’s hard to say how many, but a lot of people did not speak the same language (Acts 2:5-11). Now this diverse group of believers is devoted to fellowship, and language and racial barriers have been overcome. Devotion to sharing life with other Christians means a commitment to overcoming obstacles that keep us divided.

What does sharing life together look like? How far does it go? Consider these phrases from our Bible readings: “had all things in common”, “distributing…as any had need”, “in their homes”, “of one heart and soul”, “bear one another's burdens”, “love one another, just as I have loved you”, “that they may all be one”. The specifics of what each group does as they share life together may be a little different. Local economic needs, level of persecution, and individual needs all play a factor. A healthy circle will be more than just a social gathering. There will be help for overcoming sin, emotional support, reconciliation, family challenges, work challenges, and financial crises. Again, each small gathering of believers will look different, but one thing is clear, there should be a spirit that says, “We are in this together!”

Ask Yourself:

-What barriers have I allowed to keep me from sharing life in a deep and meaningful way with other believers?

-How can I become more devoted to sharing life with other believers?

Pause to Pray for the Church: Lord Jesus, you have given me new brothers and sisters. Our love, our devotion, our support of each other, and our unity should be stronger than any other group on earth. Please help me to see how I need to grow in sharing life with other believers… Amen

Take a Next Step into Christian community: With your circle, discuss how your group can go deeper in the way you share life together.